The hype
Guests love the lobby vibe and the views, but consistently complain about the noise and the 'lipstick on a pig' feel of the renovations.
Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo - A Doubletree By Hilton
$180-260/ night
Book this if You want the only 'resort-style' hotel in Hilo with Hilton reliability and a killer location on Banyan Drive.
Why People Love It
- Incredible views of Hilo Bay and Mauna Kea from oceanfront rooms
- Free daily round of golf and snorkel gear included in the resort fee
- The warm DoubleTree cookie at check-in (and seconds if you ask)
Quick Take: It’s the best hotel in Hilo, but that’s a low bar—expect thin walls, humidity-worn corners, and a 'renovated motel' feel rather than true luxury.
Reviewed by @ScottsdaleTravelChick: I spent my mornings just walking these grounds—the Hula statue greeting you against that blue ocean backdrop is something else. It’s quiet, breezy, and feels like the authentic Hawaii I was looking for. Totally recommend for a chill recharge.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Oceanfront' rooms have spectacular views, but the windows often don't open, and the AC units can be aggressively loud.
- You are a Hilton Honors member maximizing points and perks
- You plan to explore Volcanoes National Park and just need a solid base
- You play golf (it's free!)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
6.8
- Housekeeping: Inconsistent. Many reports of 'weekly only' defaults or missed days. You must request daily service.
- Bathroom hygiene: Hit or miss. 'German limestone' sounds fancy but often shows water spots, rust, or mildew due to Hilo humidity.
- Maintenance: Showing age. Peeling paint, rust on balconies, and worn carpets are common complaints.
- Linens & towels: Standard DoubleTree quality—clean but not luxurious. Sometimes worn.
- Odors & scents: Generally fresh, but musty/damp smells in hallways and some rooms are common due to the climate.
Sleepability™
5.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Thin walls/connecting doors
- Loud HVAC units
- Hallway chatter
Before you book
Good to know
- The resort fee (~$39-46) is mandatory but actually includes decent perks like 2 drinks/day and golf.
- Valet lines can get long (20+ mins) during peak checkout times.
- The pool is small and unheated—refreshing in summer, chilly in winter.
What to pack
- High-quality earplugs or a white noise machine
- Reef-safe sunscreen (required in Hawaii)
- Rain jacket (Hilo is the wet side of the island)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Mauna Kea Tower, Oceanfront Corner Room (ends in '05' or similar) for wrap-around lanais
- Top floor Ocean View for less overhead noise
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms near the elevator (constant dinging)
- Lower floor rooms facing the parking lot/driveway
- Connecting rooms if you value privacy (sound leaks)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room in the Mauna Kea Tower, ideally a high-floor Oceanfront Corner room. Please avoid connecting rooms and locations near the elevator due to noise sensitivity.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a resort fee?
Yes, approximately $39-46/night. It covers Wi-Fi, parking (sometimes—check package), 9 holes of golf daily, snorkel gear, and 2 daily drinks.
Is there a beach?
No. The property is oceanfront but on rocky lava cliffs. You can't swim directly off the hotel grounds safely.
How is the parking?
Valet only at the main entrance (~$25-30/night). Self-parking is technically available at the golf course across the street but is far and less secure.
Does the hotel have AC?
Yes, all rooms have AC, though units can be loud and humidity can still be an issue in hallways.
Is breakfast included?
Not standard. Hilton Gold/Diamond members get a daily credit (~$18) which covers a continental option or part of the buffet cost.
Can I walk to restaurants?
Yes, but options are limited. Ken's House of Pancakes and Suisan Fish Market are walkable, but you'll want a car for most dining.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Walk to Suisan Fish Market (5 mins) for the best fresh poke bowls on the island—go before 11am for the best selection.
- ✨
The 'resort fee' includes 9 holes of golf daily—even if you don't play, the course is a nice walk.
- ✨
Ask for your warm cookie at check-in; they will often give you a second one if you ask nicely later.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Oceanfront' windows often do not open, meaning you can see the ocean but can't hear it or feel the breeze.
💡The bathroom layout in some suites is bizarre, with a soaking tub right in the middle of the living space.
💡Hallways are open-air in parts and can get slippery/damp when it rains (which is often).
💡The 'free' snorkel gear is basic; serious snorkelers should bring their own mask.
💡Uncle Billy's hotel next door is a condemned, abandoned eyesore (though the state is working on demolition).
Local Playbook
Map
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